The Backstage with Robert Emery Podcast

Getting sacked by Andrew Lloyd-Webber is the worst moment of my career
— Peter Polycarpou

Robert Emery talks to Peter Polycarpou, British stage, TV and film actor best known playing Chris Theodopolopodous in the hit TV series 'Birds Of A Feather'. Peter talks about his approach to work, tells some incredible stories on what happens behind the scenes in the world of theatre, and answers a quick-fire round of questions culminating in the big question; Les Mis or Miss Saigon?

Since becoming a household name in TV, Peter has gone on to forge an incredible career in theatre and film.  This conversation takes us through what it was like to work with Madonna (Pop Star, not the picture of the Virgin Mary!), being in the first cast of both Les Mis and Miss Saigon and what happened in Phantom when Andrew Lloyd-Webber didn't like his approach to the role.


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Robert Emery talks to Peter Polycarpou, British stage, TV and film actor best known playing Chris Theodopolopodous in the hit TV series 'Birds Of A Feather'. Peter talks about his approach to work, tells some incredible stories on what happens behind the scenes in the world of theatre, and answers a quick-fire round of questions culminating in the big question; Les Mis or Miss Saigon?

Listen to the episode on Apple PodcastsSpotifyStitcherOvercast, YouTube or on your favourite podcast platform. 


SHOW NOTES

  • Peter Polycarpou working with Robert Emery [01:15]

  • Figuring out how to be an actor [05.07]

  • Birds of a Feather [11:24]

  • Miss Saigon [14:20]

  • Mrs Henderson Presents in Toronto [14.49]

  • Working with Madonna on Evita [15.45]

  • Claude-Michel Schönberg [21.10]

  • Phantom of the Opera [28:35]

  • Imagine This [29:50]

  • Accents [32:10]

  • Turning into a composer [36:16]

  • Tips and tricks to be ultra-productive [43:10]

  • Meditation [49:10]

  • Predictions of the business in 20 years [51:18]

  • Quick fire questions [53:52]

  • Victor Spinetti [56:22]




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This blog post is brought to you with help from Red Bull.

This high-energy drink not only helps sports professionals with that little boost when they need it, but conducting a concert for three hours, or playing a 42 page piano concerto also puts pressure on the physical body. I've used Red Bull for years to keep my energy and concentration high - and whether you're studying for a degree or just simply going for a long walk, this wonder drink really does give you a little 'cheer me up' when needed. And with 7.5 billion cans sold in a year, it's certainly the most popular energy drink in the world!

About Robert D.C. Emery

Robert Emery is a conductor, pianist and serial entrepreneur.

He is lucky enough to travel the world; ranging from performances in London's Royal Albert Hall, through to the Sydney Opera House, Robert has seen them all.

Besides music, he is the Founder & Director of The Arts Group; one of the most diverse entertainment companies in the UK. Within the portfolio is a national music tuition agency, symphony orchestra, choir, artist agency, record label and production company.

Aside from that, he lives in London and Cambridge, has a wife (Mrs E), a toddler (Master T), a baby (Master A) and 4 cats.

 

 

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